An organization's community relations may be affected by such diverse factors as its recruitment methods, employee relations, waste disposal, energy use, design and maintenance of buildings and grounds, marketing and advertising strategies, and corporate philanthropy.

The quality of an organization's employees, the cooperativeness of citizens and governmental agencies, the patronage of community members, the ability to attract financial support, indeed, the success or failure of an organization may depend on the effectiveness of its community relations.

Community activism is increasing. Responsibility and accountability for business practices must be part of the overall mission and organizations must be prepared to deal with increased scrutiny by the media and its publics.

"Today, no matter how large, small, or important an institution may be, it can be undermined if its community relations are haphazard."
     —Wilbur J. Peak